In the blink of an eye, it was time for the official start of the filming of “Farewell My Concubine.” The actors arrived early, especially Maria. Although she had gained some popularity, this was her first time partnering with an actor of Osborn’s caliber. She knew the importance of this film for the company and didn’t dare to slack off.
Jane, as the company’s president and screenwriter, personally attended the set for supervision. When she saw Maria, she walked over to greet her, “Maria, how are you prepared?”
“Ah… Miss North!” Maria, who was just chatting with others, turned around when she heard Jane’s voice and nodded quickly, a bit embarrassed. “The lines are all memorized, and I’ve practiced many times at home. But… I still feel a bit nervous.”
Jane patted her shoulder reassuringly, saying, “Relax, just play normally when the time comes. You’ve endorsed several products for the company, and I believe in your ability.”
“Yeah!” Maria nodded firmly, showing a smile to Jane. She wouldn’t disappoint the company.
Once all the crew members were in place, the clapperboard was snapped, and the film entered into a lively shooting mode.
The first scene was a dialogue scene, where Maria’s character went backstage in the theater to question Osborn’s character. This was a crucial setup for the climax of the entire film.
Osborn, as a seasoned actor, was well-versed in all aspects of film acting. While Maria was less experienced, she compensated with emotional investment, and the two of them had a good understanding of each other.
“Cut!”
The director, sitting behind the camera, observed the actors’ every move. When he saw the final questioning segment, he unexpectedly called a cut.
Standing up from his chair, the director, with a significant tone, said to Maria, “Maria, your tears shouldn’t come out too quickly at this point. You should have that sense of perseverance. The emotion wasn’t quite right. Let’s do it again, one more time.”
This was already the director’s third time calling a cut.
Feeling a bit disheartened, Maria, when she received the role of the female lead in this film, already felt immense psychological pressure. Now, with the director repeatedly calling a halt, she became increasingly confused.
“Alright…”
Osborn, noticing that the young girl beside him seemed a bit absent-minded, smiled at the director, “Sir, we’ve been shooting for a long time. Let’s take a break and adjust our emotions.”
After the director agreed, the two returned to the rest area. Osborn took the script and walked up to Maria.
“Feeling a bit upset just now?”
Maria glanced at him, forced a smile, and shook her head.
Osborn smiled, showing her the parts of the script he had marked, “Actually, the part just now isn’t that difficult. The female lead is originally a calm and assertive village girl. Even when arguing with the male lead, the emotions shouldn’t be too intense. If you’ve ever quarreled with a boyfriend or ex-boyfriend, imagine that I’m your ex-boyfriend. Picture me making you feel wronged and not daring to cry, just wanting to clarify things with me. If you can have that feeling, it’s basically right. Remember, you must endure the grievance. Later, I’ll try to evoke your emotions. If you can’t cry, look for light sources and external stimuli. That’s the last resort.”
Osborn explained while gesturing to Maria, trying to inspire her enthusiasm.
Feeling better after the senior’s guidance, Maria smiled and nodded, “Okay, thank you, Osborn! I appreciate your help.”
“No trouble at all.”
Jane walked over, sitting next to Osborn, and asked with a smile, “What are you talking about?”
Maria laughed and said, “Just now, I asked Osborn to help me rehearse the scene. I didn’t perform very well…”
Osborn shook his head, “Not at all. Maria is working hard, just a small hiccup. We’re collaborators, no need to thank.”
Afterward, he turned to Jane, extending the script, “By the way, Jane, I was reading the script, and I have a small understanding about the male lead…” In no time, Jane and Osborn immersed themselves in a passionate discussion about the script, exchanging views and finding many common perspectives.
Maria sat on the side, quite interested in the conversation. Soon, her gaze shifted to Osborn.
Osborn was handsome, gentle, and willing to help newcomers. She seemed to be developing some feelings for him. However, anyone with eyes could see that Osborn liked Jane. They shared so many common topics. Would he ever notice her?
Suddenly, this thought popped into Maria’s mind. Especially since Jane appeared, Osborn was completely engrossed in discussing the script and chatting with her, not paying attention to Maria beside them.
A hint of disappointment flashed in her eyes, and her smile gradually faded. After thinking for a moment, she decided to get up and leave, practicing in another place on her own.
…
During the afternoon shoot, with Osborn’s guidance, Maria and he smoothly completed their scene. The subsequent scenes for the female lead were just a few appearances, so even though the afternoon mainly focused on shooting Osborn’s scenes, he quickly finished filming due to his extensive experience.
After wrapping up, Osborn waited for Jane at the entrance. As they walked out of the shooting location, many reporters surrounded them. Camera flashes incessantly lit up their faces.
Jane quickly raised her hand to shield herself, and Osborn turned to the side, attempting to protect her. The assistant kept clearing the way in front.
At this moment, a reporter held up a microphone and asked, “Miss North, what are your expectations and opinions on the film ‘Farewell My Concubine’ produced by Star Entertainment?”
“Miss North, we heard that this film is intended to be submitted to film festivals by Star Entertainment. What advantages do you think you have?”
One question after another was thrown at Jane, all of which she cleverly answered with official statements. However, following these questions, an explosive inquiry emerged.
“Miss North, we heard that you have already broken up with the president of Pansy Group. What are your plans for the future? Osborn is your artist, and you often work together. It seems like you have a good relationship with Mr. Maltz. Are you considering further development with him?”
Jane, who was composed until then, frowned and pursed her lips upon hearing this question.